Dear Partners of the UCSB Food Security and Basic Needs Taskforce,
This newsletter is a resource for staff, faculty, student leaders, and community partners working together to support food security and basic needs at UCSB. Weāre committed to keeping you informed and fostering collaboration as we move into the Summer Session!
Got a topic youād like to see covered in an upcoming issue? Feel free to share your suggestions with us using this Google Form.
Letās continue making a difference and ensuring that every student has what they need to thriveāthrough the summer and beyond!
Warmly,
UCSB Thrive š
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š Become a Research Mentor with CSI!
The Chicano Studies Institute Undergraduate Research Fellows Program is seeking mentors for the 2025ā2026 academic year! This program supports underrepresented students ā including first-generation and transfer students ā as they explore research opportunities across campus.
As a mentor, youāll:
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Ā Be matched with students interested in your research area
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Guide undergraduates through 99/199RA research projects
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Connect with a network of faculty, grad students, and post-docs
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Celebrate your work together at the annual URF Connect & Celebrate event
š© Participating is simple,Ā youāll only be contacted if a student is interested in working with you, and thereās no obligation to accept.
š§ For more information, contact: csi-underg...@ucsb.edu or gonz...@ucsb.edu.
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š MCC Open House! š
š
Ā Thursday, October 9
šĀ 5:00 PM
šĀ MCC Lounge/Lobby
šĀ Register on Shoreline
Kick off theĀ 2025ā2026 academic yearĀ at the šĀ MultiCultural Centerās Open House! Celebrate a new year ofĀ connection and communityĀ as you meet our amazing MCC team, explore an exciting lineup ofĀ Fall eventsĀ , and discover ways to get involved withĀ student organizations š©āšš¤.
⨠Enjoy hands-on fun withĀ bubble activitiesĀ andĀ bead-making, while indulging inĀ tasty small bitesĀ andĀ refreshments. Whether youāre looking to make new friends, reconnect with familiar faces, or simply enjoy aĀ welcoming and inclusive space š”, thisĀ FREE eventĀ is open to everyone!Ā š¤
We canāt wait toĀ celebrate, connect, and createĀ with you at the šĀ MultiCultural Center!

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š Pop-Up Pantry & Resource Fair š
Join us for our nextĀ Pop-Up Pantry & Resource Fair, the perfect opportunity to stock up on FREE fresh produce š„¬š„, connect with basic needs resources, and meet community partners!
šĀ IV Community Center
š
Ā Tuesday, September 30Ā | šĀ 2:00ā4:00 PM
šĀ Next date: October 28
StudentsĀ andĀ community members are welcome. Bring a friend, grab some groceries, and learn more about the resources available to support you this quarter!Ā š

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š Volunteer with Kids In Nutrition This Fall!Ā š
š Looking for aĀ fun and impactfulĀ way to getĀ involvedĀ this quarter?Ā
Kids In Nutrition (KIN) is now accepting volunteers forĀ Fall 2025! As a KIN volunteer, youāll helpĀ teach local elementary studentsĀ aboutĀ healthy eating, nutrition, and making smart food choicesĀ while buildingĀ leadershipĀ skillsĀ and giving back to theĀ community.Ā š„
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šØĀ Protect Your EBT Benefits!Ā šØ
TheĀ California Department of Social Services (CDSS)Ā has become aware of aĀ third-party mobile appĀ in the Apple iOS App Store calledĀ āEbt edge ā food stamps.ā
ā ļøThis appĀ mimicsĀ theĀ official, state supported FIS ebtEDGE Mobile AppĀ andĀ charges users $4.99 weekly or $60 for lifetime access.
ā
Ā California will NEVER chargeĀ for the use of the official EBT app.
Screenshot ofĀ third-party mobile appĀ Ebt edge ā food stamps app:

Screenshot of theĀ official, state-supported FIS ebtEDGE app:

Concerns about your Calfresh benefits?
Email Thrive: Basic Needs at UCSB atĀ sa-bas...@ucsb.edu.
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š² Fall 2025 Commute Reset Challenge š
The Sustainability Internships and Community Resources Department in Student Affairs invites you to join the Commute Reset Challenge! šāØ Participants can earn a $60 gift card š³ plus prizes from local businesses while helping UCSB reduce its impact on climate change.
š± How it works:
Commit to swapping out your single-occupancy commute š for a sustainable option at least 2 times a week during Fall Quarter 2025. Options include biking š“, bus š, train š, or joining a carpool/vanpool š.
ā
Eligibility:
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UCSB employee or registered student in Fall 2025
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Held an individual UCSB parking pass (Spring or Summer 2025)
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Live 2+ miles from UCSB Main Campus
š Why join?
Try a new way of commuting, reduce your carbon footprint, and earn rewards while making a positive impact!
š How to Register:
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š„ļø Register & make an account on Smart Ride
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š Fill out the survey: https://smartride.org/survey/take
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š§ Click the link sent to your email to complete registration!
Ā

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š Ways to Give Back With LEAP
š¼ Donate Diapers All Month Long
This September, weāre shining a light on Diaper Need Awareness Week (Sept 15ā21). Help local families by dropping off diapers at any of our partner locations across Santa Barbara. Every donation keeps little ones clean, healthy, and happy. š
š Kinecta Helps Students Start the Year Strong
A huge thank-you to Kinecta, who donated 29 backpacks filled with school supplies through their back-to-school drive! These will be distributed to students at Isla Vista, El Camino, and La Patera schools through our School-Based Family Advocate initiativeāensuring kids start the year prepared and ready to learn.
š» Upcoming Webinar: Hope and Healing in Uncertainty
š
Wednesday, Sept 24 | š” 6:30ā7:30 PM | Zoom
Join us for the final session of LEAPās wellness series to learn strategies for finding hope, healing from past traumas, and building resilience. Free & open to all!
š° Secure Your Financial Future ā Financial Literacy Course
š
Starts Wednesday, Oct 8 | š” 6:30ā8:00 PM | Zoom
In partnership with Bank of America, this 5-session series covers banking, budgeting, credit, and protecting your finances.
š To register, call Ana Maya at (805) 869-3303.
š¤ Many Ways to Give
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Volunteer your time and talents
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Become a monthly donor ($5, $10, or $25 makes a big impact!)
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Donate shelf-stable food, diapers, or wipes to support families in need
Together, weāre building stronger, healthier communities. Thank you for being part of this important work!
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š 2025 Central Coast Sustainability Summit
š
Wednesday, October 15th | 8:00 AM ā 4:30 PM
š Corwin Pavilion, UCSB
Join local leaders, agencies, and changemakers at UCSB for a full day of collaboration, learning, and climate action! š±
š¤ Keynote Speaker: Ben Stapleton, Executive Director of U.S. Green Building Council California, will share insights on how the built environment can drive equity and resilience across our communities.
š§ Breakout sessions will cover topics like:
⢠Climate and community resiliency
⢠Building electrification and utility rates
⢠Waste management & food recovery
⢠Regenerative agriculture
⢠Climate education
š Donāt miss the Clean Transportation Showcase, featuring EVs, e-bikes, and clean mobility solutions. Sponsored by the Central Coast Clean Cities Coalition.
Questions? Contact Jewel Persad at jewel...@ucsb.edu
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Ā š It's Fall Y'allĀ šÆ
CelebrateĀ Rosh HashanahĀ with Health and Wellness, Thrive Basic Needs, AS Food Bank, and the Halal and Kosher Grocery Program!Ā š
Join us for aĀ sweet food tasting with apples and honey.Ā š
š
Ā September 29th, 2025
š 11 a.m. to 1 p.m
š In front of the Food Security and Basic Needs Center.

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Ā Holistic Safety Plan: A Ki To Be Free
šĀ Tuesdays ā 9/30, 10/14, 10/28, 11/18Ā | šĀ 12:00ā1:15 PM | MCC Lounge
Join us for anĀ empowering community seriesĀ designed toĀ spark reflection, dialogue, and connectionĀ šāØ. Each session offers a safe space to explore howĀ identity, advocacy, and free expressionĀ intersect in todayās world.
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š Pantry & Food Support Updates š„«
The ASĀ Foodbank willĀ reopen on October 6th (Week 2), soĀ stop by to stock up on essentials then!Ā Miramar Pantry is open!
Need extra support or have questions about campus resources? The Basic Needs Advising CenterĀ in the UCENĀ is still open and here to help.
š Check our website or Instagram @ucsbthrive for hours and updates!
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š§ Basic Needs Tech Support Program
The Basic Needs Technology Program provides currently enrolled UCSB students in a degree-seeking program with access to tech resources to support their academic journey.
To be considered, students must submit a Basic Needs Tech Request Form.
Once submitted, request forms are reviewed by our tech team, and students can expect a response within 2ā3 business days.
š» Loaner Laptops (All Students)
Short-term Chromebook loans are available for all currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students.
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š
Max loan period: 30 days
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ā
Must sign a borrower agreement at pickup
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š Requests accepted nowāfollow-ups will begin once Fall Quarter starts
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š” Great for short-term tech access needs during midterms, finals, or hardware repairs
š± Loaner iPads (Undergraduates Only)
Thanks to Associated Students, UCSB undergrads can also request loaner iPads with styluses!
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š
Max loan period: 1 full quarter
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š Limit one iPad per student
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š¤ Must be currently enrolled undergraduates (at least 6 units)
This offering helps ensure undergraduates have equitable access to creative, flexible, and mobile learning tools.
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š” AS/EOP Grants ā Apply by June 6, 2025
Need help covering unexpected educational expenses? TheĀ AS/EOP GrantĀ provides funding to support EOP students facing unusual school-related costs.
ā
Ā Eligibility:
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Must be anĀ EOP member
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Must beĀ enrolled at least half-time
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Must receiveĀ need-based financial aidĀ (e.g., Pell Grant, Cal Grant)
šĀ How to Apply:
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Meet with aĀ Peer MentorĀ to discuss eligibility, documentation, and expenses.
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GatherĀ original, itemized receiptsĀ for your expenses.
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Schedule an appointment with anĀ EOP CounselorĀ to finalize and submit your application.
Appointments can be booked through theĀ Staff Page, by calling š (805) 893-4758, or in-person atĀ SRB Suite 2210.
Ā
š¶ Basic Needs Childcare Grant ā Up to $1,000/Quarter
Are you a parenting student? You could qualify for up toĀ $3,000 per academic yearĀ to help cover childcare costs.
šĀ Whoās Eligible:
- Graduate or undergraduate students with childcare expenses
- Students who submitted aĀ 2025ā26 FAFSA or CADAAĀ (automatic consideration)
šĀ Not FAFSA/CADAA eligible?
Fill out theĀ Google Form application.
š”Ā Good to Know:
- Students must haveĀ Paid Status set with BARCĀ to qualify.
- Award amounts vary based on number of dependents and documented childcare costs.
Ā
𩺠SMERF ā Emergency Medical Support
TheĀ Jack Canfield Student Medical Emergency Relief Fund (SMERF)Ā is here to help students manage unexpected medical costs that might impact their ability to stay enrolled at UCSB.
šĀ Eligible expenses include:
š
Ā Applications for Fall 2025Ā will be reviewed startingĀ October 9th.
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šGEMS! š
Looking to explore gender identity and build community in a safe, affirming space? Join GEMS: Gender Empowered Mutuals:Ā a supportive discussion group facilitated by UCSBās Health Equity Advocate and RCSGD's Assistant Director of Student Support & Advocacy.Ā š
šļø 4 Thursday afternoons this Fall
š 1.5 hour sessions
⨠All identities welcomeĀ
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šĀ Outreach Events for Prospective Graduate Students
UC Santa Barbara is committed to supportingĀ prospective graduate studentsĀ by providingĀ clear, accessible, and helpful informationĀ about the admissions process.
š¢Ā Fall 2025 Graduate Admissions Webinar Series
Join the UCSB Graduate Divisionās Admissions, Outreach & Diversity team forĀ free virtual workshopsĀ designed to help youĀ prepare a strong applicationĀ andĀ better understand the admissions process.Ā Open to all prospective students!
šļøĀ Webinar Dates
October 14, 2025 | 10:00 ā11:15 AM PDT
November 12, 2025 | 10:00 ā11:15 AM PST
December 2, 2025 | 10:00 ā11:15 AM PST
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ECen Operations Crew ($17.00/hr.)
Ā
Job Description:Ā The ECen Operations Crew serve as the support staff for daily maintenance and operation of the Events Center and are responsible for maintenance of equipment and facility. Staff will occasionally provide operations support for athletic games/practices, intramural sports, and special events. This position is staffed around school schedules between 7:00am and 12:30pm on weekdays, as well as 7:00am-5:30pm on the weekends. The minimum hours for this position is 10 hours a week with a maximum of 20 hours a week. Crew members will be required to work a shared load of early morning and weekend shifts.
Ā
Apply by: September 27thĀ 6:00am
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UCSB IV Small Artists Co-op Executive Team
The UCSB Exec Team is searching for passionate students to join us in roles across Social Media, Event Organizing, Fundraising/Tabling, Music Coordination, and Graphic Design (and more!).
Fill out one application per role youāre interested in.
We will release decisions and/or interview requests on a rolling basis through the email address that you provide.

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UCSB LibraryĀ
Services Desk Student Assistant ($16.50/hr.)
The Services Desk in the Paseo is a combined Reference and Access Services point in the Library where patrons can request or check out materials from Course Reserves, the Main Library, Interlibrary Loan, and various other off-campus locations. Additionally, the Services Desk provides general, directional and basic reference information for students, faculty, staff and the public. Student assistants are expected to maintain a high level of competency, accuracy and professionalism with a high degree of independence while assisting patrons with a variety of tasks in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment.
*Federal Work Study eligibility is required for this position*
Apply by: October 1st 8:00am
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The Gaucho Athletics Program (GAP) Internship
Job Description:Ā Welcome to the Gaucho Athletics Program (GAP), a new internship program created to provide students the opportunity to work in the college athletics environment before graduating from UCSB.Ā We will be launching the first cohort of students in GAP for the Fall 2025 quarter.Ā This is a very competitive and selective program to be accepted into. Our Fall 2025 cohort will allow 5-10 students the opportunity to work within the athletic department for a guided 10-week learning and hands-on experience.
Apply by October 1, 2025 at 12:00 PM
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AS Publications Student Copy Operator ($16.50-17.50/hr.)
Job Description:Ā Provides a variety of technical support to the publication side of the David B Miller AS Publications. Responsible for assisting in the process by which classroom readers are ordered, prepared and reproduced. Requires ability to deliver services with set deadlines. Ability to keep track of multiple tasks at once. Good customer services skills in dealing with representatives from student organizations, university staff and faculty. Requires attention to detail and accuracy, knowledge of computers and copy machines, general clerical duties and a positive attitude. Must be willing to work flexible hours. Must be available to work occasional evening and weekend hours, especially during the first week of the quarter and some break periods. Those will the ability to work through work through quarter breaks are encouraged to apply. Work in collaboration with other AS Enterprises (AS Food Bank, AS Publications, AS Recycling, Department of Public Worms, AS Bike Shop, AS Ticket and Cashierās Office) to cross train on process and procedures.Ā Act as backup staffing for these areas as needed.
Apply by: October 10th 2025 11:59PM
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ššFall in Love @ ASAP Cats - Adoption Event & Yard Salešš
Join us this Saturday, September 27th, from 10am-3pm! Autumn is the purr-fect time to turn over a new leaf and meet your future feline companion. We're brimming with SO many precious cats who can't wait to fall into your armsš»
While you're here, don't leafš without checking out our yard sale! Every purchase helps support our shelter and the cats in our careš§”š¤
š5473 Overpass Rd.Ā #101, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
9/27/2025 I 10:00AM - 3:00PM

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ā½ Blue-Green Rivalry: UCSB vs. Cal Poly šš
Itās the match of the season ā and one of college soccerās fiercest rivalries! š„ Come cheer on UCSB Menās Soccer as they take on Cal Poly in the annual Blue-Green Rivalry showdown.
š
Saturday, September 27, 2025
š Harder Stadium
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š¶ Fall Kick-Off Block Party š¶
š
Sunday, Sept 28 | š 12ā2 PM
š St. Michaelās, Isla Vista
š¤ Live music
šØ Arts & crafts
š² Games & fun
š“ Delicious food
Join us for a free celebration of community,Ā all are welcome! š
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š¶šļø WELCOME BACK CONCERT + THRIFTOPIA! šļøš¶
Thriftopia is back AND weāre bringing the vibes with a Welcome Back Concert! š¤ Stay tuned into AS Program Board for the artist reveal!Ā šø
š All clothing $30 and under šø
š Learn about UC student orgs
š¤ Connect with your community š«¶š¼
š
Saturday, Sept 27th
š AnisqāOyo Park

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š„āØJoin us for āMovies in the Parkā every Friday
Ā
September 12th - October 3rd at 8pm in AnisqāOyoā Park!
This yearās theme is Ā Friendship, Frights, & Nostalgic NightsĀ with classics likeĀ Ghost Busters, Beetlejuice, and more!Ā
Free snacks while supplies lastĀ - bring your friends and enjoy some delicious popcorn and entertainment!
š950 Embarcadero Del Mar, IV. See you there! š

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š Drag 101: Intro to Fierce
šĀ The HubĀ | šļøĀ Thursday, October 3Ā | ā°Ā Doors open at 7:45 PM
Class is officially in session and this one isnāt listed on GOLD! š
Join theĀ UCSB Drag ClubĀ for a fabulous night full of fierce performances, iconic kicks, splits, and campy fun. šāØ Meet an incredible cast ofĀ drag performersĀ and kick off the new school year withĀ confidence, glamour, and a whole lot of sparkle.Ā šĀ

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š»Ā KCSB Radio Orientation
Ever dreamed of hosting your own radio show, diving into music reviews, or becoming a campus journalist? šļøš” Join us forĀ KCSBās Fall OrientationĀ and learn how to get involved with UCSBās legendary college radio station!
šĀ When:Ā Monday, September 29th at 5:30 PM
šĀ Where:Ā Corwin Pavilion
This is your chance to:
- š¤ Host your own music, talk, or specialty show
- š° Report on news and sports stories
- š§ Explore archival audio and station history
- āļø Write for KCSBās blog or curate playlists
No experience necessary,Ā just bring your curiosity and creativity!Ā

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šĀ Looking for an On-Campus Job? Weāve Got You Covered!
Kickstart your job search this fall withĀ Career Servicesā On-Campus Job MixerĀ ā the perfect place to connect with hiring departments and discover exciting opportunities without ever leaving campus! š¼āØ
šĀ When:Ā Tuesday, September 30th, 2025
šĀ Time:Ā 12:00 PM ā 2:00 PM
šĀ Where:Ā Career Services Building (Building 599)
Whether youāre seeking aĀ part-time job, work-study position, research opportunity, or internship, this casual networking event is your chance to make a great first impression and explore roles that match your interests.
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š„ Need Help Applying for CalFresh?
Join our CalFresh Enrollment Parties this October! š Our CalFresh & Basic Needs Advocates will walk you through the application process, help determine your eligibility, and support you if challenges come up.
š
Wednesday, October 1 &Ā Wednesday, October 8
š 6ā8 PM
š SRB MPR
Donāt miss out on free application support and the chance to maximize your benefits! āØ

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OCTOBER 1ST IS BOOKED, RSVP FOR OCTOBER 8TH
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š Fall Hours for the Food Security & Basic Needs Advising Center
As we transition into fall, the Food Security & Basic Needs Advising Center is here to support students throughout the quarter! DuringĀ Week 0, our UCEN location will be openĀ MondayāFriday, 9 AMā5 PM.
StartingĀ September 29, weāll have expanded hours and locations:
šĀ UCEN:Ā MondayāFriday, 9 AMā5 PM
šĀ SRB (Room 2287):Ā MondayāFriday, 9 AMā5 PM
šĀ El Centro (Room 115):Ā MondayāWednesday, 12 PMā3:30 PM

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šĀ Miramar Food PantryĀ
Stop by forĀ food supportĀ and grabĀ freeĀ freshĀ produce,Ā toiletries, and pantry supplies!
Mon:Ā 5ā8 PM IĀ Tue:Ā 5ā8 PM IĀ Thu:Ā 5ā8 PM
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Resource Center for Sexual & Gender Diversity (RCSGD)
Looking for a welcoming space to connect, recharge, or ask questions? TheĀ RCSGDĀ lounge is open this fall for drop-in support, community, and conversation! š³ļøāšāØ
š Fall 2025 Lounge Hours:
Mon ā Wed:Ā 10 AM ā 6 PM
Thursday:Ā 10 AM ā 5 PM
Friday:Ā 10 AM ā 2 PM
Saturday & Sunday:Ā Closed

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šĀ ONDAS Student Center Has a New Home!
Ā Find them now atĀ Kerr Hall 1120, conveniently located just down the hall from the old spot and accessible from the breezeway across from Woodstockās Pizza at The Arbor.
šĀ Hours:Ā MondayāFriday, 10 AM ā 5 PM

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TheĀ Student Resource Building (SRB)Ā
Fall 2025 Hours:
MonāThurs:Ā 7:30 AM ā 11:50 PM
Fri:Ā 7:30 AM ā 5:50 PM
Sat & Sun:Ā Closed
Stop by during the week to find aĀ quiet spot to study, meet with peers,Ā or justĀ rechargeĀ between classes!
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šøĀ Financial Aid & Scholarships ā Drop-In Hours
Need help with your financial aid package, scholarships, or award questions? TheĀ Financial Aid & Scholarships OfficeĀ is here to support you!
Fall 2025 Hours:
š Monday - Friday:Ā 10:00 AM ā 12:00 PMĀ &Ā 1:00 PM ā 4:00 PM
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ASK A QUESTION
Want more information? We've got you covered ā just reply to this email!
VISIT OUR WEBSITE
The basicneeds.ucsb.eduĀ site acts as a central hub for all things relating to basic needs at UCSB. It is regularly updated with information on critical resources, and you can use our virtual chat feature to get one-on-one advising with a peer advocate!
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